Dental Implants FAQ Riverhead, NY

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant actually refers to a small, bio-compatible titanium post that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone. This post will serve as the artificial root for the prosthetic tooth. The dental implant is restored with a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture, depending on the number and location of your missing teeth.

Do dental implants require special care?

Once healed, a dental implant can be treated like your natural teeth. Twice daily brushing, flossing and routine dental health exams are necessary for long term success. Dental implants, like natural teeth, require healthy bone and gum tissue for survival. Good oral hygiene and biannual dental exams can keep your implant healthy and secure for years to come.

How quickly can I get a replacement tooth?

The entire dental implant process can take from 3-9 months. There are many factors that go into how long it will take. The number of implants you need, the location of the implant, and if you require any other treatments before the implants are placed like gum disease treatment or a bone graft all effect how long the process will take. Dr. Sal Lotardo will perform a thorough dental exam at his dentist office in Riverhead, NY and then created a treatment plan. You will have the implants surgically placed and that will require a healing time of at least 3 to 6 months. After that, an abutment will be attached to each implant and a brief healing time will follow. Then you will return again for the attachment of your dental restoration.

What are the chances of implant failure?

Dental implants are now considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. The national success rate of dental implants is about 95%. Factors like smoking greatly increase your chance of dental implant failure. If you choose dental implants as your missing tooth replacement, you need to be committed to a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits.

Do I qualify for dental implants?

Dental implants are for people who are missing teeth or have damaged teeth. People of any age can get dental implants except children since their jawbone has not completely developed. Healthy bone structure is the most important qualification to receive a dental implant. The bone structure needs to be healthy in order for the implant to completely fuse with the bone to support the dental restoration. If you have suffered from bone loss, Dr. Lotardo may recommend bone grafting to ensure the success of your dental implant. Patients also need to have healthy gums. If you suffer from periodontal disease, you must first be treated for that before receiving dental implants.

Can I replace my denture with dental implants?

Patients who have been struggling with poor fitting dentures can replace them with dental implants. Many people choose dentures because they are the cheaper and faster option then realize that dentures are not the best solution. Dr. Lotardo offers All-on-4 dental implants at his Riverhead, NY dentist office. This technique uses as few as four strategically placed dental implants that will secure a hybrid denture for a functional and stable smile. Using smaller implants, this procedure is often available to patients who have diminished bone structure in the jaw and may not have been considered a good candidate for traditional implants.